The currency used
in the Republic of China is the New Taiwan Dollar (NT$). As of 1998, the
exchange rate was close to NT$33 to US$1. Foreign currencies can easily
be exchanged for local NT$ at most banks, hotels, and even some departmental
stores. After any transaction, be sure to keep the receipts if you want
to exchange unused NT$ before departure.

Taiwan notes come
in the form of NT$100, 500, and 1,000. Coins are available in denominations
of NT$1, 5, 10, 50, and 100.

Traveler's checks
and major credit cards are accepted in most places on the island. Among
them are American Express, Carte blanche, MasterCard, Diners Club, and
Visa.

What
to wear

As Taiwan has four
seasons, appropriate clothing should match the right season.

In the summer, pack
light and loose clothing, preferably cotton, casual sportswear, and comfortable
walking shoes. If it is a business trip, bring a jacket and tie, though
the weather may be too hot for that type of attire. Most Chinese businessman
choose to wear leisure suits with open collars to beat the heat.

Winter in Taiwan
is a bone-chilling experience. Be sure to prepare enough woolens, sweaters,
jackets, pants, and socks to overcome the frosty weather. You may also
want to include a rain-gear as thunderstorms can appear out of the blue.

Airport
Tax

When departing Taiwan,
an airport tax of NT$300 must be paid and the receipt kept when checking-in
to the departure hall.

Medical
Services

It does not cost much to
get medical treatment and dental care in Taipei. This does not mean, however,
that the services are not as good or efficient as in some other countries.
In fact, the quality of medical services here is superb and up-to-date.

Tipping

It is not really necessary
to give tips in Taiwan. However, a small tip for bellboys or taxi drivers
would sometimes be much appreciated. Hotels normally include a 10 percent
service charge to the room rates and meals. Heavy tips are expected at
wine-houses and dance-halls.

Business
Hours

Most businesses and
service sectors are open at 9 a.m. Banks open from 9 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.
(Monday-Friday) and from 9 a.m. to noon on Saturdays. Commercial firms
begin work at 9 a.m. and end at 5:30 p.m. Some commercial firms operate
half-day on Saturdays.

Departmental stores
open daily from 10:30 a.m. to 9:30 p.m. while smaller stores open from
9 a.m. to 10 p.m. Government sectors start from 8:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.
with a one hour break and continue to 5:30 p.m. (Monday-Friday). They
are also open from 8:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. on Saturdays.